Intel Router Taps High-Speed DSL

FRAMINGHAM (07/20/2000) - Intel Corp. aims to give small and midsize business users high-speed Internet access with a new router that can take advantage of traditional telephone lines to access high-speed DSL2 services (HDSL2).

The Express 9545 router lets users have access to 1.5M bit/sec services using the same copper wires used for telephone systems instead of installing dual copper pairs required by the older high-bit-rate digital subscriber line (HDSL) standard.

The router also includes the routing and DSU/CSU required for T-1 line Internet connections in a box - pieces that usually are installed separately by service providers at an end user's site.

William Hurley, an analyst with The Yankee Group Inc. in Boston, said Intel's router will serve as a cost-effective and simple high-speed Internet connection device for small and midsize businesses. Users can reap cost and performance benefits, he says, because the router works with existing telephone infrastructure and gives better performance than other options, such as dial-up connections.

The router works with HDSL2 access devices, such as concentrators and multiplexers from providers such as AccessLAN Communications Inc., Adtran Inc., ADC/ParGain and Wetstel.

Anni Moeller, a product line manager for Intel, says in addition to letting users take advantage of their existing wiring, the router reaches distances of more than 2 miles, approximately twice the length of DSL technologies - increasing the number of users who can access the pipe.

The Express 9545 also supports the Embedded Operation Channel standard, as well as optional remote console features that let network professionals manage the device. Those features also let service providers that offer the box remotely install and configure the Express 9545, which reduces service costs.

The Express 9545 router is part of Intel's line of Express 8200 and 9500 routers, which are intended for Internet and branch-office access. Those devices have one or two WAN or LAN ports.

Intel is upgrading the Intel Express router software that runs those devices.

The firmware is available free to current users. The Express 9545 is shipping now and costs $1,899.

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